(VIDEO) – RIDE WITH THOMAS THE TANK ENGINE IN CHATTANOOGA
🎈 It’s a Beautiful Day for a Ride with Thomas & Friends™ at TVRM!
All aboard for family fun and railway magic! The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum (TVRM) in Chattanooga invites you to spend a joyful spring day with the world’s most beloved blue engine—Thomas the Tank Engine™! As part of the 80th Anniversary Celebration of Thomas & Friends™, we’re offering an unforgettable experience on April 5th, 6th, 12th, and 13th, filled with smiles, steam, and surprises for guests of all ages.
From engaging outdoor activities to interactive train rides, this celebration is more than just a day out—it’s a ticket to create memories that will last a lifetime.
🚂 Why This Event is Special
TVRM isn’t just any venue. Our grounds bring railroad heritage to life, and this event lets visitors of all ages immerse themselves in the legacy of American rail travel. Featured during this celebration is Steam Queen #630, a 121-year-old locomotive built in 1904 that still runs on the rails today—a rare opportunity for steam engine fans and families alike.
🌟 Event Highlights
🎉 Celebrate the 80th Anniversary of Thomas & Friends™ with:
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🚂 A real train ride with Thomas
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🧙♂️ A live magic show to amaze and delight
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🎈 Balloon animal creations for the kids
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📸 Photo opportunities with Sir Topham Hatt
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🫧 Bubble stations and outdoor play
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🎯 Mini golf and activity stations
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🎨 Temporary tattoos and play tables
👉 BONUS: Show your Thomas ticket at the station to receive a special discount on the Missionary Ridge Local ride—a 65-minute journey that includes a ride through the pre-Civil War era Missionary Ridge Tunnel and a stop at our restoration facility.
🎟️ Book Tickets for April 13 →
🧠 What Families Want to Know
Q1: What is included in the ticket?
Each ticket includes a ride with Thomas, access to all event activities (play areas, magic show, etc.), and photo ops. Food and merchandise are available for purchase.
Q2: How long is the Thomas ride?
The train ride with Thomas lasts approximately 25 minutes, a perfect length for kids and parents to enjoy without feeling rushed.
Q3: Is the event accessible and family-friendly?
Absolutely! The grounds are stroller-friendly, and most activities are geared toward children aged 2–10, though everyone is welcome. Seating, restrooms, and food options are readily available.
🚂 The Missionary Ridge Local: Ride the Rails of History
When you ride the Missionary Ridge Local, you’re not just riding a train—you’re stepping into a legacy. Powered on this day by Southern Railway steam locomotive #630, this journey offers a taste of the golden age of railroading. The train crosses bridges, travels through a mountain tunnel, and gives guests a firsthand look at restoration work at East Chattanooga.
This steam locomotive, built in 1904 by the American Locomotive Company, continues to fascinate both seasoned railfans and curious young passengers.
🛤️ Plan Your Visit
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📍 Location: Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum, Chattanooga, TN
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📅 Date: April 5th, 6th, 12th, and 13th, 2025
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🕙 Departure Times: Select your time during booking
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💵 Tickets: Still available online
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🚂 Add-On Ride: Discounted Missionary Ridge Local ticket with Thomas ticket stub
📸 Picture-Perfect Moments
Between the backdrop of vintage railcars and the energy of the celebration, this event is loaded with Instagram-worthy moments. Don’t forget to use hashtags like:
#DayOutWithThomas #TVRM #ThomasAndFriends80 #SteamQueen630 #ChattanoogaEvents
🎯 Make It a Day to Remember
Whether you’re a longtime Thomas fan or a parent looking to share something magical with your kids, this is the moment to hop aboard. Join us as we celebrate 80 years of Thomas & Friends™ in true railroading style.